A shocking and brutal incident took place in Akron, Ohio, when an Uber driver was shot six times after picking up two male passengers. One suspect has since been arrested, while the second is still believed to be at large.
What Happened?
The incident occurred around 9:30 p.m. on July 17 on the 500 block of Sanford Avenue. A 911 caller told police that they heard gunshots and then saw someone lying on the ground.
When police arrived, they found a 39-year-old woman, the Uber driver, who had been shot multiple times. She was rushed to a nearby hospital and is now in stable condition, according to NBC-affiliate WKYC.
Suspect Arrested by U.S. Marshals
About a week after the incident, 18-year-old Jaiden Palmer was arrested by the U.S. Marshals Service’s Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force. The arrest happened on Shaw Avenue in Akron.
Palmer has been charged with felonious assault and aggravated robbery, police confirmed.
Police: Victim Was Shot During the Ride
According to the police investigation, at some point during the ride, one of the two passengers pulled out a gun and shot the driver six times. She was hit in the abdomen and arm. Both men then ran away from the scene.
Authorities have not confirmed whether the second man has been identified or arrested.
Warning to Ride-Share Drivers
Akron Police Lt. Michael Murphy issued a warning to other ride-share drivers. He said:
“If anything about a ride feels suspicious, drivers should feel free to cancel the ride or contact police for help.”
He acknowledged the fear and concern this crime could cause among Uber and other ride-share drivers.
Current Status
The victim is recovering in hospital, and Jaiden Palmer is now being held in Summit County Jail. The search continues for the second suspect, and the investigation is still ongoing.
